Nigerian Correctional Service Denies Alleged  Robbery of Kuje Inmate

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has denied claims that an inmate at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kuje was robbed of valuables exceeding N120 million during a recent search operation.

Chief Superintendent of Corrections and Service Public Relations Officer Jane Osuji issued a statement describing the allegation as false, misleading and inconsistent with established custodial procedures.

Osuji explained that the operation was a routine security search carried out in accordance with standard operating procedures designed to maintain security, order and discipline within the facility. All prohibited items recovered were properly processed and documented.

The Service reiterated that inmates are prohibited from keeping unauthorised items or large sums of money while in custody. Personal belongings declared at admission are recorded and securely stored until an inmate’s discharge or lawful release.

Records at the Kuje centre show no indication that the items mentioned in the reports were declared by the inmate upon admission, nor were such items recovered during the search.

Osuji added that the alleged valuables would be classified as prohibited contraband, making their possession a violation of correctional regulations.

The Service also noted that no formal or informal complaint regarding theft or loss of the alleged items has been lodged by any inmate or individual through its official complaint channels.

Reassuring the public, the NCoS said the Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre remains calm, peaceful and secure.

The agency urged media organisations and the public to avoid circulating unverified claims that could mislead the public and undermine confidence in public institutions. Journalists were encouraged to seek clarification through official channels to ensure fairness, accuracy and responsible reporting.

The rebuttal comes after widespread social‑media reports alleged that an inmate at the Kuje custodial facility had been deprived of cash and other valuables during a search by correctional officials. The claims sparked public debate and renewed scrutiny of conditions within correctional centres.

The Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre, located in the Federal Capital Territory, is one of Nigeria’s most prominent correctional facilities and has housed several high‑profile inmates over the years. The facility has attracted significant public attention since the July 2022 terrorist attack that led to the escape of hundreds of inmates, prompting the Federal Government to strengthen security measures across custodial centres nationwide.

Since then, the Nigerian Correctional Service has intensified routine security searches and monitoring activities in correctional facilities to prevent the possession of prohibited items, curb criminal activities within custodial centres and enhance overall security.

The Service reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law, protecting inmate welfare and advancing ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening professionalism, transparency and accountability across custodial centres nationwide.